Question 1225 Deck General

The correct answer is D) damage to tank boundaries. Pressure-vacuum relief valves on tank vessel cargo tanks are critical safety devices that prevent excessive pressure or vacuum from building up in the cargo tanks. If these valves are not kept in good working order, the pressure or vacuum in the tanks could increase to the point where it causes damage to the structural integrity of the tank boundaries. This could lead to leaks, tank failures, and potentially catastrophic incidents. The other answer choices are incorrect because they do not directly address the primary purpose of the pressure-vacuum relief valves, which is to protect the tank structure. Option A is incorrect because the valves prevent the escape of vapors, not necessarily explosive ones. Option B is incorrect because oil spillage is a secondary concern compared to protecting the tank boundaries. Option C is incorrect because the valves are not primarily meant to prevent contamination between tanks.